Private Yacht - On The River - In Heart of Downtown
This beautifully furnished 48' Hatteras yacht offers a unique experience to stay directly on the Cape Fear River. In the heart of historic downtown Wilmington, it is on the famed "River Walk" and ideally located between the Convention Center and the new Live Oak Pavilion Amphitheater at Riverfront Park. Walk to shops, restaurants, bars and live music. ONE NIGHT RENTALS ARE AVAILABLE FOR LIVE OAK PAVILION CONCERTS. Send an inquiry for more details.
Boasting one of the best docks in the private Port City Marina, you will have an unprecedented view of the river and the Battleship North Carolina. Sit on the aft deck and watch spectacular sunsets. The upper helm provides open air, lofty views and can be closed in inclement weather.
Onboard, you will enjoy all the comforts of home and far more amenities than a hotel room including a main salon (living room), full galley (kitchen) with glassware, dishes, full size fridge, microwave, stove and coffee maker. Boat includes ample storage/closet space, "shore power" (i.e., full electricity), AC and heat, hot/cold water, and linens/towels. There are three TVs with DVDs (master, aft-deck and salon) and two Firesticks.
There are multiple options for sleeping arrangements: - The aft captains' quarters with a queen bed, - Forward V-berth with 2 bunk beds, and - Main salon sleeper sofa.
While there is ample room for more, we recommend three guests for maximum comfort. Only a total of four guests (five on a case-by-case basis with pre-approval) are allowed to sleep aboard. An additional fee of $50 per person per night is added for a fourth or fifth guest.
It is imperative that we meet guests at the boat to give an orientation. Therefore, we kindly ask you arrive no later than 6:00 pm. We realize things can come, so we ask for updated ETA's on day of arrival.
While there are not a lot of steps on the Southern Cross, they are STEEP. It helps to be fit and flexible. If you have any knee, hip or other mobility issues, we recommend you choose other accommodations. When booking, if you would please include a note indicating "Yes, we are in good physical condition", we will be much quicker in accepting the reservation.
Port City Marina is just a short 10 mile drive to Wrightsville Beach and the ocean. Less than an hour drive to Fort Fisher, the NC Aquarium, South Port and so much more! Something for everyone!!
Guests will have full access to all areas of the yacht, but please do not touch any of the dials, knobs or instruments on the helm. We do not allow the boat to be taken out of the slip. Your rental is specifically for staying aboard overnight. Several boat charters are available nearby.
The dock is situated at the end of a pier so there are no boats on either side, offering unusual privacy. We ask that you limit the number of guests on the boat and/or dock to 8 (overnight guests 4; 5 with special permission). There is ample space off the boat for friends and family to gather nearby. The boat is not suitable for children. No guests allowed under the age of 16. Please note the boat is on water so seasickness can happen.
There are two heads (bathrooms) on board each with a toilet and sink. The captain's quarters also has a shower. The marina has a brand-new owner's lounge with bathrooms and showers. We ask (and appreciate) guests using the marina facility when possible to reduce the need for pump out of the boats onboard holding container.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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Flexible check-in available (contact host in advance of arrival)
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children
Adults only
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Events
No events allowed
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Pets
No pets allowed
Non-shedding pets approved on a case-by-case basis
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Turn off the lights and return the keys
Please leave sheets and blankets on the bed.
Hang any used towels in the bathroom.
Lock the salon door, close the windows, and leave the key & parking pass under the cutting board on the aft deck. Close the side wing doors. Leave the hvac running. Thanks!
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
For maximum comfort, we recommend 3 guests. If approved, there is a $50 per person charge above 3. Five guests allowed only on a case-by-case basis.
No taking boat from dock. No swimming in the river.
Fishing is allowed at a nearby pier.
While check-in time is flexible, we would greatly appreciate your arriving no later than 7:30 pm in order for us to give the orientation.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 2607028vb
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses a grey water recycling system and eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
About the area
Wilmington
Located on the waterfront, this houseboat is in Downtown Wilmington, a neighbourhood in Wilmington. Live Oak Bank Pavilion and Wilmington Railroad Museum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Brooklyn Arts Center at St. Andrews and Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College or Legion Stadium. With power boating, surfing/body boarding and fishing nearby, you'll find plenty of adventures in the water.
Wilmington Convention Center - 7 min walk - 0.6 km
Cape Fear Community College - 9 min walk - 0.8 km
Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College - 9 min walk - 0.8 km
Getting around
Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) - 11 min drive
Restaurants
Brunch Thyme - 13 min walk
Copper Penny - 17 min walk
The Half - 18 min walk
Eagle's Dare - 15 min walk
Java Dog Coffee House - 14 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is Private Yacht - On The River - In Heart of Downtown pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Private Yacht - On The River - In Heart of Downtown?
As of 17 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Private Yacht - On The River - In Heart of Downtown on 1 Jun 2026 start from £158, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Private Yacht - On The River - In Heart of Downtown?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-out at Private Yacht - On The River - In Heart of Downtown?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Private Yacht - On The River - In Heart of Downtown located?
Located in Downtown Wilmington, this houseboat is within a 5-minute walk of Riverfront Park and Riverwalk. Live Oak Bank Pavilion and Wilmington Convention Center are also within 10 minutes.
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Perfect spot for a needed vacation. Christa and Lee were extremely responsive and checked in on us during our stay. The boat was perfect. We would love to return!
Will definately be booking again. Clean, relaxing and affordable. Lee and Christa were very attentive and kind. Downtown had all the shops and resturants but loved that the southern cross.had a resturant right outside the gate. Easy, affordable and convenient.
I truly wish I could give more stars! Everything about our stay was perfection. The location, amenities and boat itself were heavenly. And the hosts... absolutely top-notch. They were communicative and welcoming, and went out of their way to ensure we had everything we needed. Of all our VRBO experiences, this was by far our favorite!
This is a very unique stay! Very quiet and relaxing with everything you need! Kichen galley is great, tvs with streaming, and ac/heat. Bring your charcuterie and wine and enjoy an early evening happy hour with river breeze, a great view of the Battleship North Carolina, and a nice sunset! Lots to do in Wilmington and great restaurants within walking distance as well as the Riverwalk and Front Street!
Wonderful experience! We stayed 3 amazing nights on the Southern Cross and it was something we won't forget. The location is perfect being close to restaurants and Riverwalk, so there is plenty to do without leaving the area, which we loved. The yacht has been well taken care of and is quite comfortable. Christa and Lee are so thoughtful with providing everything that is needed, and then some! Communication was great! No question left unanswered. You'll meet with them at arrival to do a walk thru which is necessary since this is a yacht. Truly best experience I have had with property owners!
Stephanie W.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Apr 2026
Wow -- what a sweet review. And thanks for including the great pictures too!
We had a wonderful experience. My wife and I booked this stay in anticipation of future live-aboard life to see what it might be like. Our hosts Christa and Lee made sure everything was just right. I’m 6’2” and had no problem getting around the boat, I even fit in the shower. This was so much nicer than a hotel room, so much space and very comfortable. The location is great, it’s a 10 minute walk to downtown Wilmington with plenty to do. Parking was very close to the boat as well. We will be returning soon!
Kelly S.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Mar 2026
Thanks for the lovely review. The addition of pictures is great!!
Staying on the Southern Cross is always a wonderful experience. Lee and Christa are attentive hosts. Beautiful views in the marina near Live Oak, multiple restaurants and a short drive downtown .
Super beautiful location and property, hosts and generous and very welcoming, great communication and very helpful orientation to the workings of the boat. Such an amazing location, so easy to access fun downtown food and activities. Relaxing and comfortable place to gather, play games, enjoy the river.
We had a wonderful time celebrating our 25th anniversary on Southern Cross and would definitely recommend her to anyone looking for a truly unique stay in Wilmington. Lee & Christa were fantastic to work with and we looking forward to going back soon!
We were looking for a unique place to stay for our 30th anniversary and The Southern Cross was perfect!! Christa and Lee were delightful and gave us a wonderful orientation of the yacht and checked in on us to make sure everything was going well. The location was fantastic and easy walking distance to downtown Wilmington and many great restaurants. I highly recommend this property!!
Magnificent classic yacht -- marvelous experience! From beginning to end, our stay was amazing. We would highly recommend it to family and friends. Hosts were very friendly and kind & went over and above to make sure our stay was flawless.
Fantastic stay - Christa met us at the boat and explained everything. Great location, and s well stocked with anything we might need (including snacks :)). It’s clear the owners take great pride in the Southern Cross-and it’s a beautiful vesselWe’ll be back when it’s a bit cooler….10/10 recommend!!
The hosts were incredibly welcoming and accommodating in everyway! From orienting us to their yacht to sharing their favorite local eats and things to do! We thoroughly enjoyed our stay! 10 out of 10 for sure!
We had great weekend. Christa was wonderful. Showed us around and gave us suggestions. The accomodations were very nice. Would highly recommend. Hope to come back in future.
A great experience and stay while moving my son into UNCW. Excellent way to spend family time.
Heather P.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
About the host
Hosted by Phillip Lee Murray
Your host, Lee, is a native of Wilmington. Although he left to become a "surfer dude" in Hawaii and was gone for some 40 years, his heart remained in North Carolina. While gone, he advanced in the ranks of Hilton Grand Vacations and became well versed in property management. His significant other, Christa, spent 25 years working in customer service. Together they will be sure the Southern Cross exceeds your expectations and look forward to making your stay exceptional.
Why they chose this property
Premier location in the private Port City Marina with fabulous views of the Cape Fear River; within walking distance of the new Riverfront Park Amphitheater and all the downtown happenings.
And there is so much to do in Wilmington! Take a horse drawn carriage ride through downtown, hit any one of the numerous beaches, go to Cameron Art Museum, walk through Airlie Gardens, tour the Battleship North Carolina, take a sunset cruise departing from the Riverwalk and from the Blockade Runner, or eat at any one of the amazing restaurants throughout Wilmington.
What makes this property unique
There are no other boats on the Cape Fear River or places to stay in downtown Wilmington like it -- the Southern Cross is one of a kind.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests